“Ideas formed at the formative years of children form an integral part of their understanding of things. With this initiative, we wish to instill in them an image of an animal-friendly society and empathy for other living beings,” shared Shruti Oza, a member of Helping Hands For Animals. The group will also hold programmes in different schools and places to make people aware about animal cruelty and rights.

As per statistics available with these animal welfare organisations, around 2 to 3 cases of animal cruelty are reported every month in Indore. Statistics point to most of the crimes being committed against dogs. These crimes range from throwing acid on animals to overworking and suffocating them. “It’s a pity that these cases are not reported in the first place,” said De.

Supporting the issue which was raised a couple of months back to amend the rule wherein only a `50 fine was charged from offenders booked under animal cruelty, activist Tushar Shinde said, “We had extensively campaigned a couple of months back on this issue. We even submitted a memorandum to the prime minister. But an action is yet to be taken. On the occasion of animal rights day, I and my organisation will urge residents of the country to treat animals with love and humility and not as toys,” he said.